Deputy Chief of Police

Basic Function

The Deputy Chief functions as a high-level administrative leader, directly supporting the Chief of Police. The Deputy Chief will manage key operational areas, represent the department at official events, act as liaison with various internal and external stakeholders, and sometimes serve as Acting Chief of Police when designated by the Chief. This executive-level position requires a strategic thinker with exceptional leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Uses discretion in a broad area of responsibilities as identified below among multiple priorities. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures.
 

Responsibilities and Specific Duties

• Provides implementation and oversight of the department’s long-term and short-term objectives. 
• Directs oversight and supervision of the Assistant Chiefs and their operations. 
• Oversees major operational areas within the police department, ensuring efficient functioning and meeting performance objectives. 
• Manages police department services, activities, and operations. 
• Leads, organizes, directs, coordinates, develops, and implements management strategies that promote efficient and effective solutions to critical service, crime, and traffic mobility issues as well as critical support issues, such as organizational development and training, and critical investigative issues.
• Manages the levels of service and staffing and allocates resources appropriately.
• Assists the Chief of Police in responding to critical incidents, major emergencies, and significant events.
• Coordinates interdepartmental communications and assists with special projects. 
• Manages critical incident response and departmental emergency preparedness.
• Provides leadership in personnel management, including recruitment, training, and professional development.  
• Assists the Chief of Police in evaluation of departmental employees and performance. 
• May serve as chair to various internal committees that address organizational issues, as well as addressing community concerns. 
• May be involved in overseeing internal investigations and disciplinary actions. 
• May direct and manage in the direction, development, implementation, administration and operations of various policies, systems, plans and projects. 
• Oversees complex administrative functions, including budget preparation and management. 
• Assists in representing the police department in matters pertaining to budget, personnel, legal and administrative matters. 
• Assumes the responsibilities of the Chief of Police when designated by the Chief. 
• Attends and speaks at meetings, community events, ceremonies, and other official functions on behalf of the Chief of Police. 
• Serves as liaison between the Police Chief and internal/external stakeholders.
• Represents the police department to other departments, outside agencies, professional groups, and committees.
• Coordinates assigned activities and ensures responsive, appropriate service delivery.
• Fosters positive relationships with community leaders, stakeholders, and external agencies to promote collaboration and trust.
• Ensures compliance of all federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.
• Ability to work extended hours and respond to emergency situations.
• Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.
• Applies SMS (Safety Management System) methods and principles in daily routine and supports all aspects of the agency’s Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).
• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
• Pay Range: $142,400 - $194,300

Education Requirement

Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, Business Administration, Public Administration or related field is required. Graduation from the F.B.I. National Academy, Senior Management Institute for Police, Southern Police Institute or a similar professional leadership program is highly desirable.

Years & Experience Required

Minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressive law enforcement experience. At least five (5) years’ experience in a command  
level leadership role serving as the Chief of Police, Executive Assistant Chief or Assistant Chief within a law enforcement agency is preferred. 

Knowledge & Skills Required

Extensive experience in law enforcement leadership roles. Advanced knowledge of the overall operations of a police department and criminal law. Deep understanding of police procedures, policies, and legal frameworks. Demonstrated ability to manage complex operations and diverse teams. Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. Strong analytical, strategic planning, and problem-solving capabilities. Proven ability to make sound, critical decisions under pressure and in complex situations. Demonstrated commitment to community relations and public safety. General knowledge of various standard Microsoft products.  
Must have a Texas Peace Officer license issued by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). 
Must possess a current TCOLE Master Peace Officer Certification.

This position requires a background check. Common disqualifiers include, but are not limited to: 
•    Class A or Felony conviction or court-ordered supervision or probation regardless of date of conviction.
•    Class B conviction or court-ordered supervision or probation within the past 10 years.

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero-tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment. Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements. We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, or disability.